Firestone FR380 Extended Recall Field Action FAQ

1. What did you announce June 26?

We are expanding the recall we announced last October concerning certain Firestone FR380 tires that were produced at Bridgestone de Costa Rica in 2007 and 2008. The initial recall covered roughly 135,000 Firestone FR380 tires size P235/75R15 that were produced from the 23rd week in 2007 through the 35th week in 2007. This recall is now being expanded to also include roughly 127,000 Firestone FR380 tires size P23575/R15 produced from the 36th week in 2007 to the 30th week in 2008. These tires were sold in U.S. replacement market; however it is also possible that a small number of these tires from the additional production weeks may have been sold in the Canadian replacement market. Although no property damage claims, accidents or injuries have been reported with respect to the tires, they don’t meet our internal standards. Specifically, these tires were produced with insufficient tread base gauge. Continued use of these tires may lead to vibration and groove cracking. We are committed to quality and safety and want to urge consumers to get these tires replaced free of charge.

2. What tires are affected by the expansion of this field action?

Roughly 127,000 Firestone FR380 tires size P235/75R15 tires that were produced from 26th week in 2007, thru the 30th week in 2008 that were manufactured by Bridgestone de Costa Rica, S.A. at its San Jose tire plant.

3. What should consumers do who have these tires?

Consumers can receive free replacement tires through any participating independent Firestone tire dealer or company-owned stores (Firestone Complete Auto Care, ExpertTire, Tires Plus, Hibdon Tires Plus and Wheel Works). The stores will replace with new tires any tire (including the spare tire) of the line and size covered by this field action. Firestone retailers will also mount and balance the replacement tires for free. Consumers in Canada can visit any Firestone independent tire dealer to have the tires replaced.

4. What kind of tires will I get as replacements for my recalled tires? Will they be the same brand and line as the ones you’ve recalled?

The recalled tires can only be replaced with the list of authorized replacement tires lines. It’s important that consumers and their tire professionals check the owners’ manual for the appropriate fitment as certain vehicles may require extra load tires or A/T pattern tires. Here is the list of authorized replacement tires:

5. Where can I get more information on this field action and when will this field action end?

Consumers can find information on our Web site (www.firestonetire.com) or they can call our toll-free consumer hotline (1-800-465-1904). Consumers can visit any of our approximately 2,000 company-owned stores across the U.S.

This recall on will end on October 31, 2009, so it is important that consumers who have these tires on their vehicle get the tires replaced as soon as possible.